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The metal world was stunned by the sudden death of Avenged Sevenfold drummer, James “The Rev” Sullivan. A few days after, Mike Portnoy, drummer from Dream Theater, published some heartfelt remarks. Sullivan had mentioned several times throughout his career how Portnoy’s was a major influence.

In an incredible act of kindness and respect for the former Avenged Sevenfold drummer, Portnoy will enter the studio filling in for “The Rev”. All I can say is awesome!

Avenged Sevenfold issued the following statement:

“I want our fans to know that with Jimmy in our hearts, our journey to record has officially began. Jimmy helped leave this world an amazing gift and now it’s our job to make sure to deliver that gift to our fans. We asked Jimmy’s all time favorite drummer Mike Portnoy to record on behalf of him. Mike said it would be an honor and without question that’s what Jim would have wanted. Its comforting to us that someone like Mike, who is undoubtedly revered as one of the best drummers in the world, held such respect and adoration for the Rev’s abilities.

“Even though it will never be the same without our brother by our side, his essence lives in our hearts and through the music he helped create. He was a legend before any of the success or any of that bullshit and we are fucking excited to lay this down for our fans, and especially for Jimmy.”

I am very curious to see how Portnoy’s signature style will blend with the Avenged Sevenfold sound. The band’s next album should be a treat.

UPDATE: Shortly after posting the story, Roadrunner released an official statement from Mike Portnoy:

“Even under normal circumstances, I would’ve been happy to help the guys out in any way I could as I think Avenged Sevenfold are a great band…but under these incredibly sad and tragic circumstances, I must say I am truly honored to have been asked to play with them and I didn’t even have to think twice about saying ‘yes.’

“These guys are a true family and it is an incredibly emotional experience to be here with them for the first time without their lost brother. But they have welcomed me into the family with open arms and there’s a real excitement to make the record they had set out to make.

“I am treating my participation on this album with the utmost respect for Jimmy’s memory and am remaining as true as possible to the drum parts that he wrote for the songs and the record he wanted to make.

“I want their fans to realize that I’m not trying to step into or fill The Rev’s shoes…I’m just merely lacing ’em up for him!”